bisexualbookshelf's reviews
793 reviews

In her stunning debut novel, C Pam Zhang delves deep into the heart of intergenerational trauma and the intricate tapestry of immigrant experience against the backdrop of the American West's twilight during the gold rush era. How Much of These Hills Is Gold is a poignant exploration of loss, identity, and the quest for belonging.

The narrative follows Lucy and Sam, two orphaned siblings navigating a harsh and unforgiving landscape in search of a place to call home after the death of their father. Zhang's prose is as raw and unyielding as the wilderness through which Lucy and Sam traverse, echoing the emotional terrain they must navigate.

One of the most striking aspects of Zhang's storytelling is her portrayal of the immigrant experience and the toll it takes on individuals and families. Through Lucy and Sam's journey, she skillfully unpacks the complexities of identity, the struggle for survival, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a better life.

Zhang's exploration of masculinity, particularly through the lens of immigrant and marginalized communities, is both nuanced and revelatory. She challenges traditional notions of masculinity, exposing its often violent manifestations while also highlighting its capacity for tenderness and resilience.

The novel's thematic breadth is vast, touching upon issues of environmental justice, colonialism, and the legacy of exploitation that continues to haunt the American landscape. Zhang's prose is imbued with a deep reverence for the land and its mysteries, underscoring the interconnectedness of nature and humanity.

This book is not merely a story; it is a meditation on memory, belonging, and the enduring bonds of family. Zhang's narrative unfolds with the grace of a myth, weaving together Chinese symbolism and reimagined history to create a haunting and unforgettable tale.

How Much of These Hills Is Gold is a masterpiece that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. It is a work of profound beauty and depth, offering readers a glimpse into characters grappling with the weight of their pasts and the promise of an uncertain future. This is another must-read recommendation for my diverse lit-fic lovers and anyone seeking a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience in America.

📖 Recommend For: Advocates of Environmental Justice, Explorers of Intersectional Identity, Critics of Capitalist Exploitation, Fans of Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half and Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner.

🔑 Key Themes: Intergenerational Trauma, Immigrant Experience, Gender Identity Exploration, Cultural Displacement, Family Bonds, Environmental Exploitation, Colonial Legacy, the Myth of the American Dream.

Casey’s debut is sensational, revolutionary, and fiercely decolonial. Every moment of this book is trauma-informed, offering a new manifesto for 21st-century collective sexual liberation.

Thank you to Casey and Nina for the eARC!

In her groundbreaking debut, "Feel It All," Casey Tanner presents a revolutionary framework for redefining our relationships with sex, dismantling societal norms, and embracing a holistic approach to sexual wellness. Drawing upon their extensive experience as a certified sex therapist and her personal journey of overcoming the shackles of purity culture and systemic queerphobia, Tanner delivers a compassionate and empowering guide that transcends traditional narratives surrounding sexuality.

Right from the outset, Tanner sets the stage for a deeply introspective exploration, weaving together trauma-informed insights, intersectional feminism, and mindfulness practices to navigate the labyrinthine complexities of intimacy. Embracing themes of decolonialism and trauma-informed care, Tanner beckons readers to embark on a voyage of self-discovery, urging them to cast aside the weight of shame and misconceptions that have long obscured their ability to embrace authentic and fulfilling intimacy.

Central to Tanner's approach is the notion of secure sexuality—an attachment-based framework that challenges conventional notions of "good sex,” inviting readers to reclaim agency over their bodies and desires. Through a fiercely decolonial and queer-centric lens, Tanner celebrates the kaleidoscopic diversity of human expression while advocating fervently for reproductive justice and the unassailable right to bodily autonomy.

One of the book's most compelling aspects is Tanner's emphasis on collective care and empowerment. Rejecting the individualistic models of healing that pervade wellness culture, Tanner advocates for community-centered strategies that foster solidarity and mutual support. In doing so, she confronts the pervasive myths of purity culture, heteronormativity, and the gender binary, offering readers a guiding constellation amidst the vast expanse of desire, attraction, and relationship dynamics.

"Feel It All" is a testament to Tanner's unwavering commitment to anti-oppressive therapeutic practice and survivor-centered care. By unpacking the intersections of trauma, mental health diagnoses, and queerness, Tanner illuminates how systemic injustices inexorably shape our experiences of sexuality and intimacy. Through candid disclosures of their own journey as a survivor, Tanner forges a sanctuary of validation and safety for readers navigating their own paths of trauma and healing.

At the heart of Tanner's work lies a profound understanding of the somatic and neurobiological dimensions of sexual trauma. By exploring the intricate interplay between the autonomic nervous system and the brain, Tanner sheds light on how trauma manifests in the body, disrupting our capacity for intimacy. Through practical exercises and mindfulness techniques, she offers readers a path toward healing and resilience, emphasizing the importance of expanding one's window of tolerance and cultivating self-compassion.

In addition to its rich theoretical insights, "Feel It All" is replete with tangible suggestions, resources, and strategies for building more inclusive and affirming communities. Whether navigating sex accommodations for individuals with disabilities or dismantling the hegemony of the wellness industrial complex, Tanner emboldens readers to interrogate the social structures that perpetuate harm, while kindling the flames of alternative futures rooted in equity and liberation.

In "Feel It All," Casey Tanner offers more than just a book—it is a beacon of hope and possibility in a world shaped by stigma and shame. With its compassionate tone, rigorous analysis, and actionable insights, Tanner's work transcends the boundaries of traditional therapy literature, inviting readers to reimagine their relationships with sex and embark on a sacred odyssey of self-discovery and liberation. "Feel It All" is not just a guidebook; it is a manifesto for 21st-century sexual liberation—a testament to the transformative power of community, resilience, and radical love.

📖 Recommended For: LGBTQIA+ Advocates, Trauma Survivors, Mindfulness Practitioners, Intersectional Feminists, Sexuality Educators, Fans of Sonya Renee Taylor's "The Body is Not An Apology,” bell hooks's "All About Love,” and Sherronda J. Brown’s “Refusing Compulsory Sexuality.”

🔑 Key Themes: Decolonialism, Trauma-Informed Care, Collective Healing, Mindfulness and Somatic Healing, Intersectionality, Anti-Oppression, Queer-Centrism.

"Bad Cree" by Jessica Johns is an immersive journey through intergenerational trauma, resilience, and the complexities of Indigenous identity. Johns skillfully weaves together a narrative that resonates deeply with cultural authenticity, portraying the experiences of Indigenous characters with nuance and depth.

Through the lens of protagonist Mackenzie's experiences, Johns deftly navigates themes of PTSD, chronic stress, and dissociation. Mackenzie's struggles with these issues are portrayed with raw honesty, offering readers a poignant glimpse into the psychological toll of intergenerational trauma. The author's prose is both powerful and evocative, capturing the depth of emotion with striking clarity.

Johns seamlessly integrates elements of magical realism into the narrative, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the storytelling. Dreams and ancestral wisdom play a central role in Mackenzie's journey, serving as a source of both solace and revelation. The novel's exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and deeply resonant, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationships with grief and healing.

The solidarity and support between characters serve as a powerful testament to the strength of love and community. Johns skillfully portrays the ways in which honesty and vulnerability can foster connection, even in the face of profound adversity.

Overall, "Bad Cree" is a beautifully written exploration of Indigenous identity, trauma, and resilience. Jessica Johns' masterful storytelling and poignant prose make this novel a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking literary experience.

📖 Recommended For: Advocates of Indigenous Rights, Critics of Intergenerational Trauma and Colonialism, Fans of Leslie Marmon Silko's "Ceremony."

🔑 Key Themes: Indigenous Identity, Intergenerational Trauma, Healing and Resilience, Cultural Reclamation, Environmental Justice, Solidarity and Community Support, Oral Tradition and Storytelling.

 Thank you to Penguin Press for the gifted ARC!

"Anyone's Ghost" by August Thompson presents a narrative that attempts to delve into the intricacies of love, friendship, and masculinity, but falls short of truly resonating with me. While the novel explores some compelling themes, its execution leaves much to be desired.

From the outset, I found the prose to be overly embellished, as if striving for a level of creativity that ultimately feels forced rather than genuine. While there are moments of brilliance scattered throughout, they are few and far between, overshadowed by passages that feel contrived and prototypically male in their approach. The line about “It seems I was determined to break my own heart over nut” was just never going to land with me.

Moreover, the representation of queerness in the novel feels disappointingly one-dimensional. Instead of offering a nuanced exploration of the queer experience, the narrative reduces queerness to sexual behavior, experiences with homophobia, and self-destructive tendencies. As someone who has grappled with queer trauma in my own life, I'm weary of narratives that sensationalize and romanticize these experiences. The world feeds me enough of my own queer trauma, I don’t need to be served up the queer trauma porn soup in books as well.

The pacing of the novel also leaves much to be desired. The slow-burn exposition of the first 30% of the book feels interminable, making it difficult to remain engaged with the story. Even when the narrative does pick up pace, the impact feels muted by the meandering nature of the preceding chapters. Furthermore, the second car crash, a potentially pivotal moment in the story, is glossed over with only a few sentences, leaving little room for exploration or emotional resonance. By the time the novel reaches its climax, with Jake's death occurring a mere 20 pages from the end, there is a distinct sense of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.

I also found it challenging to connect with the characters on a meaningful level. Theron, the protagonist, is portrayed in a way that feels overly familiar, his insecurities and struggles with masculinity bordering on cliché. And while I wanted to empathize with Jake's struggles, his character ultimately falls flat, his behavior veering towards unsympathetic and abusive.

Despite these shortcomings, there are moments of insight to be found in "Anyone's Ghost." Thompson's critique of toxic masculinity is particularly noteworthy, as he highlights the damaging effects of societal expectations on young men like Theron. However, the novel's reliance on women and femininity as a cure for toxic masculinity feels reductive and unoriginal, failing to offer any meaningful solutions to the complex issues at hand.

In conclusion, "Anyone's Ghost" is a novel that promises much but ultimately fails to deliver. While it touches on important themes and offers moments of lyrical beauty, its flaws ultimately outweigh its strengths. August Thompson may be a promising new voice in contemporary literature, but this debut work leaves much room for improvement. This book may resonate more with cisgender queer men who have personal experience with the struggles of toxic masculinity and its intersection with queerphobia and heteronormativity. With where I am at in my life with my bisexuality, my gender identity, and my community building, this one simply did not hit for me. 

 Thank you so much to the author and to Dial Press for the gifted ARC!

In a world often fixated on romantic entanglements, Lilly Dancyger's "First Love: Essays on Friendship" offers a refreshing and poignant exploration of the profound bonds between women. Drawing from her own experiences and anchored by the tragic murder of her cousin Sabina, Dancyger delves into the intricate tapestry of female friendships with a depth and nuance that ultimately feels like a warm embrace from an old friend.

From the very outset, it's evident that Dancyger's intention with this book goes beyond mere storytelling; it's an invitation to delve into the essence of friendship, to explore its nuances, its challenges, and its enduring beauty. At its core, "First Love" challenges heteronormative relationship hierarchies, celebrating the richness and complexity of intimacy wherever it may be found. Dancyger's refusal to confine love to romantic partnerships is both liberating and affirming, offering a narrative that embraces the multifaceted nature of human connection.

What sets this collection apart is Dancyger's unapologetic embrace of vulnerability and her willingness to navigate the complexities of grief, desire, and identity. Through her evocative prose, she invites readers into the intimate spaces she shares with her closest friends, allowing them to witness the bonds that have shaped her life in profound ways. These essays, grounded in Dancyger’s own friendships, explore themes of fluid sexuality, mothering, chosen family, and the evolving dynamics of adolescent relationships.

The essays are interwoven with references to literature and pop culture, from Anaïs Nin to Tumblr "sad girls," creating a rich tapestry of influences that speak to the universality of the human experience. Dancyger's writing is both introspective and incisive, offering a kaleidoscopic view of life through the lens of friendship. She doesn't shy away from the messiness of human connection, acknowledging the inevitable conflicts and misunderstandings that arise, even among the closest of friends. Yet, amidst the challenges, there is a prevailing sense of resilience and grace—a recognition of the profound impact that these relationships have on shaping who we are and who we aspire to be.

One of the most compelling aspects of "First Love" is Dancyger's insistence on the importance of community care and solidarity. Throughout the collection, she explores the ways in which women create space for each other in a world that often seeks to diminish their voices. Her themes of anti-oppression, anti-appropriation, and anti-white supremacy are both timely and necessary, offering a rallying cry for collective action.

In her upcoming collection, Dancyger masterfully navigates the intricate terrain of societal narratives, including her poignant critiques and steadfast denial of the true-crime industrial complex. With keen prose, Dancyger unveils the harmful consequences of sensationalized crime narratives, refusing to succumb to the voyeuristic allure they often propagate. Through her exploration, she sheds light on the ways in which these narratives exploit tragedy for entertainment, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and distorting the complexities of human experience. By steadfastly resisting the allure of sensationalism, Dancyger underscores the importance of approaching storytelling with empathy, nuance, and a commitment to truth. In doing so, she challenges readers to confront their complicity in perpetuating harmful narratives, urging us to demand a more compassionate and authentic approach to storytelling in our society.

"First Love" is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the ways in which it sustains us through life's most challenging moments. It is a book that celebrates the beauty of feminine relationships in all their complexity, offering a timely reminder that love, in all its forms, is always worth the risk. This collection is a radiant and deeply moving exploration of the bonds that unite us. It is a book that refuses to be confined by conventional definitions of love, instead embracing the full spectrum of human connection. To read it is to be reminded of the profound impact that friendship can have on our lives, and the importance of cherishing those connections, however fleeting they may be.

Recommended For: Queer Millennial Women and Femmes, Mommy Issues Readers, Advocates for Community Care, Intersectional Feminism Fans

Key Themes: Feminine Solidarity, Fluid Sexuality and Identity, Grief and Loss, Chosen Family and Alternative Forms of Care, True Crime Critiques

My Favorite Quotes:

 🌧️☂️ Welcome to a world where rain is no longer a natural occurrence but a luxury reserved for the ultra-rich. In "The Rain Artist," Claire Rudy Foster paints a dystopian landscape where scarcity reigns, capitalism consumes, and the line between art and survival blurs.

Celine Broussard, the last of the umbrella-makers, becomes embroiled in a high-stakes conspiracy when framed for the murder of the planet's wealthiest man. As she navigates a treacherous landscape of power and privilege, Foster masterfully explores themes of hierarchy, power dynamics, and the commodification of nature.

Foster's prose deftly navigates the complexities of a world ravaged by environmental degradation, where the absence of rain has reshaped every facet of life. Through the lens of protagonist Celine Broussard, descended from a lineage of umbrella-makers, this book explores themes of tradition, ancestry, and the relentless march of capitalism. From the first page, issues of anti-capitalism and class consciousness echo, weaving through the intricate narrative like a delicate thread.

At the heart of this book lies a scathing critique of capitalism and its insidious grip on society. Foster doesn't shy away from delving into the unequal distribution of resources, the exploitative nature of wealth accumulation, and the consequences of unchecked greed. Through nuanced character dynamics and marvelously descriptive diction, "The Rain Artist" paints a vivid portrait of a society teetering on the brink of collapse.

This debut novel serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of complacency in the face of impending disaster. Foster's meticulous attention to detail and evocative imagery create an atmosphere of unease, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we inhabit. "The Rain Artist" does not require much world-building because it is our world, simply sped up, significantly increasing the foreboding experienced while reading this. I think this book is meant to discomfit, though, because as long as we remain comfortable, we are unlikely to agitate against capitalism.

Central to the narrative is the concept of solidarity and collective action in the face of oppression. As Celine navigates a treacherous landscape fraught with danger, she forms unexpected alliances and discovers the power of community in the fight against injustice. Amidst the chaos, moments of beauty and resilience emerge, embodied by the unlikely found family of Celine, Paul, and Yochanna.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its ability to seamlessly weave together themes of environmentalism, anti-capitalism, and social justice. Foster's narrative is both thought-provoking and deeply affecting, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned. In addition, as a queer, nonbinary trans writer, Foster brings a unique perspective to the genre, infusing the novel with authenticity and compassion. This book both entertains and challenges readers to question societal norms and imagine a more just future.

In "The Rain Artist," Claire Rudy Foster has crafted a masterful work of speculative fiction that transcends genre boundaries. With its timely themes, compelling characters, and immersive world, this novel is a powerful testament to the enduring power of storytelling in challenging times, reminding us of how much capitalism takes from us when we fall for its lies and the freedom that awaits if we can learn to resist.

📖 Recommend For: Environmental & Queer Activists, Dystopian Lit Lovers, Anticapitalist Advocates, Fans of NK Jemisin's "Broken Earth" Trilogy and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale.”

🔑  Key Themes: Anticapitalism, Environmental Degradation, Class Consciousness, Found Family, Reproductive Justice, Surveillance Culture, The Commodification Of Nature.

🌈 My Favorite Quotes:

 

Emily Austin’s debut poetry collection, "Gay Girl Prayers," is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of liberation, self-discovery, and unabashed celebration of queerness. With each verse, Austin deftly unravels the confines of traditional religious narratives, reconstructing them into a mosaic of empowerment and affirmation for all shades of queer people.

In "Gay Girl Prayers," Austin fearlessly reimagines Catholic prayers and biblical passages, infusing them with a radical queer sensibility that challenges conventional norms and invites readers into a realm of unapologetic self-expression. Through her words, she crafts a sanctuary where queer identities are not only acknowledged but exalted, where the rigid constructs of gender and sexuality dissolve, giving rise to a kaleidoscope of possibilities.

Austin's poetry serves as a beacon of liberation, offering a fresh perspective on age-old texts and inviting readers to question and deconstruct oppressive narratives. "Gay Girl Prayers" celebrates the inherent magnificence of queer existence, affirming the worth and dignity of every individual regardless of societal expectations. Through sensual imagery and playful innuendo, Austin embraces the erotic as a tool for liberation, reclaiming narratives of pleasure and desire from the constraints of shame. This collection embodies a spirit of solidarity, acknowledging the diverse experiences within the queer community and amplifying voices that have long been marginalized.

For queer folks seeking liberation and empowerment in the face of societal norms, "Gay Girl Prayers" offers a roadmap to self-discovery and radical self-love. Austin's bold reimagining of religious texts resonates with those who are unafraid to challenge patriarchal structures and embrace their own agency. Whether you're exploring your own identity or questioning established narratives, this collection serves as a catalyst for introspection and transformation.

In "Gay Girl Prayers," Emily Austin has crafted more than just a collection of poems; she has created a manifesto for liberation, a testament to the power of words to transcend boundaries and ignite the flame of resistance. With each verse, she invites readers to join her on a journey of queer self-discovery, liberation, and unapologetic joy.

Key Themes: Queer liberation, religious reinterpretation, erotic apocrypha, intersectional solidarity, queer self-love and empowerment
Recommended for: Queer Revolutionaires, Feminist Trailblazers, Seekers of Truth

Thank you so much to the author for the gifted eARC!

In a world on the brink of collapse, "Of Friction" by SJ Lee delivers a riveting narrative that blends dystopian intrigue with urgent social commentary. Lee's debut novel plunges readers into a future where the aftermath of the climate crisis has reshaped humanity, forging a society fraught with tension and division.

At the heart of this gripping tale is Sam "Valkyrie" Ryan, a complex protagonist grappling with the weight of her responsibilities and the fractures within her own identity. Through Sam's eyes, Lee skillfully explores themes of power, solidarity, and the transformative power of empathy. As Sam navigates the perilous landscape of political unrest and personal turmoil, readers are drawn into a narrative that pulsates with tension and authenticity.

One of the standout features of "Of Friction" is its unflinching portrayal of societal hierarchies and the consequences of unchecked power. Lee adeptly deconstructs the structures that perpetuate oppression, weaving a narrative that challenges readers to confront their complicity in systems of injustice. Against this backdrop, the novel champions themes of feminism, queer empowerment, and the enduring strength of found family bonds.

Moreover, "Of Friction" shines in its representation of marginalized experiences, from the nuanced portrayal of dissociative amnesia to the inclusion of sign language as a form of communication. Lee's commitment to diverse representation enriches the narrative tapestry, offering readers a glimpse into perspectives often overlooked in mainstream literature.

As the first installment in the Altered Earth series, "Of Friction" lays a solid foundation for what promises to be an exhilarating saga. Lee's evocative prose and dynamic characterizations propel the story forward, leaving readers eager to unravel the mysteries that lie ahead.

In addition to its thought-provoking themes, "Of Friction" boasts pulse-pounding action sequences and a simmering LGBTQ+ romance that adds depth to the narrative. Lee's ability to balance intimate moments of introspection with heart-pounding suspense ensures that readers remain fully immersed in the world of Altered Earth from start to finish.

With its blend of social commentary, exhilarating action, and poignant character development, "Of Friction" is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and speculative literature alike. SJ Lee's debut heralds the arrival of a bold new voice in the genre, one that promises to captivate readers with its vision of a world teetering on the edge of chaos and redemption.

Note: I would not recommend this one to anyone with strong anti-military beliefs. 

🌟 Key Themes: Climate Crisis, Power Dynamics, Solidarity, Queer Empowerment, Found Family Bonds

📖 Recommended For: Fans of Dystopian Fiction, Social Justice Advocates, LGBTQ+ Readers, Those Seeking Diverse Representation in Literature, Murderbot Fans

 

In a world where love is often confined to narrow definitions, "Entwined" serves as a beacon of liberation, offering a refreshing narrative that celebrates the beauty of polyamory, queerness, and community care. Alex Alberto's collection of genre-blending essays invites readers on a journey through the complexities of relationships, identity, and self-discovery, all while challenging the conventions of monogamy and heteronormativity.

With a voice that is both candid and compassionate, Alberto delves into their personal experiences navigating polyamory, gender identity, and the search for belonging. From tender reflections on building unconventional families to candid discussions on the intersections of queerness and cultural identity, each essay in "Entwined" offers a nuanced exploration of love, intimacy, and the quest for authenticity.

At the heart of "Entwined" lies a profound commitment to deconstruction and equity. Alberto deftly dismantles the myths perpetuated by compulsory monogamy and heteronormativity, advocating for a world where love knows no bounds and relationships are built on mutual respect and consent. Through their introspective lens, they challenge readers to confront their own assumptions about love, sex, and relationships, while championing the importance of inclusivity and intersectionality.

What sets "Entwined" apart is its unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized voices and centering the experiences of queer and nonbinary individuals. Alberto's narrative weaves together themes of decolonization, disability representation, and community care, offering a vision of love that transcends societal norms and embraces the fluidity of desire.

Moreover, "Entwined" serves as a testament to the power of storytelling as a tool for empowerment and social change. Through their candid prose and genre-defying approach, Alberto invites readers to imagine new possibilities for love and kinship, while challenging them to interrogate the systems of oppression that seek to limit their autonomy and agency.

In conclusion, "Entwined" is a groundbreaking work that celebrates the beauty of polyamory, queerness, and self-discovery. With its compelling narrative and commitment to social justice, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to expand their understanding of love, relationships, and the pursuit of authenticity.

🌟 Key Themes: Polyamory, Queer Identity, Social Justice, Community Care, Decolonization

📖 Recommended For: Queer Millennials, Advocates for Social Justice, Readers Interested in Nontraditional Relationships